Global cardiac performance

ABSTRACT

The present invention is related to implantable cardiac devices such as pacemakers and defibrillators that deliver cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT), and to a method of optimizing acquisition of impedance signals between electrodes present on implanted lead systems. This system then automatically determines which electrodes or electrode combinations acquire impedance waveforms that have the best signal to noise ratio (highest fidelity) and characterize data most representative of dysynchronous electromechanical events. Using closed loop algorithms which provide electrograms and a variety of impedance data reflective of the patient&#39;s clinical status, the system autonomously modifies interval timing within the CRT device.

PRIORITY CLAIM

This application is a continuation of co-pending U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 11/335,337, filed Jan. 18, 2006, which is a continuation ofU.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/860,990, filed Jun. 4, 2004, nowU.S. Pat. No. 7,010,347, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 10/779,162, filed Feb. 14, 2004, now U.S. Pat. No.7,065,400, which claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to 1) U.S.Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/496,595, filed Aug. 20, 2003; 2)U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/501,193, filed Sep. 8, 2003; 3)U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/501,648, filed Sep. 10, 2003;4) U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/503,857, filed Sep. 19,2003; 5) U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/506,604, filed Sep.27, 2003; 6) U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/510,718, filedOct. 11, 2003; 7) U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/515,301,filed Oct. 29, 2003; and 8) U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No.60/530,489, filed Dec. 18, 2003; wherein all of the above provisionaland non-provisional disclosures are herein incorporated by reference intheir entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention pertains to an implantable CRT device that includeselectrodes and means for dynamically measuring various impedance-relatedparameters and using these parameters for programming the CRT.

BACKGROUND

Current implantable cardiac resynchronization devices (CRT) are designedto improve congestive heart failure systems in cardiomyopathy patientswith electromechanical dysynchrony. Most physicians implant CRTs withoutmodification of the default programmed interval timing and as such asignificant percentage of patients do not have improvements in heartfailure symptoms. Current CRT essentially pace the RV and LVsimultaneously. However, future CRTs will have a programmable delaybetween pacing in the RV and LV.

SUMMARY

A substantial amount of data is available that demonstrates that smallchanges in interval timing between the RV and LV can reduce dysynchronyand improve congestive heart failure symptoms. As the status of anindividuals heart can change acutely (congestive heart failure,myocardial ischemia/infarction) or chronically (remodeling) changes ininterval timing may be needed over time. Ideally, CRTs can self adjustthis interval timing as part of a closed loop system. Parameters basedon extrinsic diagnostic evaluations such as ultrasound imaging ormeasurements of extra-thoracic impedance to guide programming of CRT maybe useful at periodic intervals but implementing such modalities can betime consuming. Use of an interface between CRT and extrinsic diagnosticsystems will help accomplish CRT programming, but will not provide adynamic means of control. Intracardiac electrograms and impedancemeasurements provide a window into intrinsic electromechanical eventsand are ideal for use in such a control system. Signal processing ofimpedance data over time has limitations. The methods and means ofidentifying which impedance signals are adequate for use as diagnosticdata for monitoring purposes is described herein. Such diagnostic datais then optimized and implemented as to direct programming of intervaltiming in a closed loop control system.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 depict the apparatus and flow diagram forautomatically programming a CRT device.

FIG. 3, FIG. 3 a and FIG. 3 b depict the rotation and translation of theleft ventricle (LV) during the cardiac cycle using ultrasound techniquesof Tissue Velocity Imaging. FIG. 3 a illustrates how the regions sampledare relatively orthogonal to ultrasound beam. FIG. 3 b illustrates theseptal and lateral wall regions of interest.

FIG. 4 illustrates the effects of extracardiac structures on impedancemeasurements.

FIG. 5 shows varying degrees of impedance signal fidelity requirements.

FIG. 6 demonstrates valvular event timing during the cardiac cycle andthe relationship between the impedance signal and Doppler derivedmeasurements of blood flow across the aortic valve as to accuratelydenote time of aortic valve closure.

FIG. 7 illustrates cardiac chamber anatomy suitable for lead placementof electrodes that provide trans-valvular (aortic valve) impedance data.

FIG. 8 depicts the relationship of impedance waveforms derived fromright ventricular (RV and LV vectors to myocardial strain (or velocitycurves) representative of time to peak impedance and time of peakmyocardial strain (or velocity), respectively.

FIG. 9 shows changes in impedance waveforms with myocardial ischemia.

FIG. 10 shows impedance waveforms derived from RV transvalvularelectrodes and LV electrodes which have been summated to derive a moreglobal representation of cardiac performance and dysynchrony.

FIG. 11 is an illustration of multipolar impedance signals derived fromtriple integration techniques of data acquired in 3 dimensions.

FIG. 12 illustrates various parameters of Global Cardiac Performancebased on varying time limits for integration.

FIG. 13 a-f in general shows how dysynchrony can exist in a pathologicheart at baseline or during ventricular tachycardia with bothpressure-dimension loops and impedance waveform morphology. FIGS. 13 aand 13 b are pressure dimension loops in a patient without advancedstructural heart disease in normal sinus rhythm and ventriculartachycardia, respectively. FIGS. 13 c and 13 d are impedance waveformsin the same patient under the same circumstances showing changes in theimpedance waveform. FIGS. 13 e and 13 f are pressure dimension curves ina patient with cardiomyopathy in normal sinus rhythm and ventriculartachycardia. Such a patient will have more degradation in the impedancewaveform than a patient with less advanced structural heart disease.

FIG. 14 illustrates how the Vital Monitoring System (VMS) uses a varietyof data as to modify tachyarrhythmia therapies.

FIG. 15 is a representation of a stochastic optimal control systemrelevant to the technologies discussed in this patent application.

FIG. 16 illustrates how multivariate statistical analysis such asDiscriminant analysis techniques assesses a variety of impedancedata/waveforms and determines which parameters are suitablerepresentations of cardiac performance.

FIG. 17 is a temporal calculator which received a spectrum of timingdata during the cardiac cycle related to intracardiac electrograms andimpedance signals and extrapolates this data for reference purposes tothe intracardiac electrogram.

FIG. 18 depicts another calculator that describes electro-mechanicalproperties derived from intracardiac electrograms and impedance signals.The output variables are representative of dysynchronous cardiacproperties and can be used in the control system as to evaluate degreesof resynchronization.

FIG. 19 shows how changes in current frequency, amplitude and pulsewidth can be modified in circumstances where impedance signals areinadequate for implementation in the control system.

FIG. 20 and FIG. 20 a illustrates how the dynamic control systemacquires impedance data, determines signal adequacy and chooses whichparameters to use for optimization of interval timing and monitoringpurposes. FIG. 20 a outlines the steps in the dynamic control system.

FIG. 21 depicts how the electromechanical correction factor is derivedfrom the impedance waveform. The number of impedance waveform peaks,Z(p), is compared to the number of intracardiac electrogram “R” waves asto confirm that time to peak impedance can be used as a parameter fordirecting interval timing.

FIG. 22 a illustrates the functioning of the Automatic OptimizationAlgorithm (AOA) with parameters reflective of Global CardiacPerformance, GCP.

FIG. 22 b illustrates the functioning of the Automatic OptimizationAlgorithm (AOA) with parameters descriptive of dysynchrony (and notcardiac performance) which are of less fidelity than those of GCP shownin FIG. 22 a.

FIG. 22 c illustrates how an AOA can use measurements of transpulmonicimpedance to evaluate the efficacy for any given set of interval timingwithout need for higher fidelity data. Such an algorithm will not usethe MOM, Matrix Optimization Method, (motherless) as the signal to noiseratio is inadequate for any of the cardiac performance parameters ormeasurements of dysynchrony utilized in FIGS. 22 a and 22 b.

FIG. 23 is a flow diagram for the Vital Therapeutic System, VTS, anddetails how interval timing is modified using a variety of techniquesbased on the degree of signal fidelity.

FIG. 24 is a picture of curved M mode date (General Electric)illustrating how delays in timing affect regional myocardial thickening.

FIG. 25 illustrates how resynchronization can reduce or eliminate delaysin regional myocardial thickening by analysis of changes in regionalvolume time curves (TomTec Imaging—Philips).

FIG. 26 shows how interval timing in a CRT device is chosen by using theMatrix Optimization Method as to derive which combination of AV andRV-LV intervals optimize a specific cardiac performance parameter.

FIG. 27 summarized how different control systems may inter-relate.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A method and apparatus for programming CRTs is disclosed in the parentapplication Ser. No. 10/779,162 (and are repeated here for conveniencein FIGS. 1 and 2). FIG. 1 shows an apparatus for programming a cardiacdevice such as a CRT (cardiac resynchronization therapy device 12. Thedevice 12 includes a lead or leads 12A with several electrodespositioned to provide sensing and excitation in a patient's heart H, asdiscussed in more detail below, including sensing and pacing of at leastthe right atrium and right and left ventricles. For the sake ofsimplicity, the electrodes have been omitted.

The apparatus 10 further includes a programmer 14 with a wand 14A. Thewand 14A is used to transmit data from the programmer to the device 12.As part of this process, the device 12 receives commands to sendstimulation signals to the respective cardiac chambers, and to sense thecorresponding cardiac response, as discussed in more detail below.

The apparatus 10 further includes ultrasonic equipment 16. Theultrasonic equipment 16 includes a display 16A, an ultrasound generator16B and an ultrasound echo sensor 16C. These elements are controlled bya processor 16D. Ultrasonic display 16A displays images derived fromreflected ultrasound waves generated by the ultrasound generator, 16B,and received by ultrasound sensor, 16C, after processing in processor,16D. The processor, 16D, received the echoes and provides variousinformation for a user such as a cardiologist or a clinician through thedisplay 16A. The display 16A may include either a touch screen or othermeans (not shown) through which the user can provide input to theprocessor 16D. For example, the user may select portions of an image onthe display 16D and request further information associated with theselected portions, request further data processing associated with theselected portions, or request some other data manipulations as discussedbelow.

The display 16A may show, directly, or indirectly, a live picture of theheart and its tissues, the operation of the valves and some parameterssuch as blood flow, myocardial thickness, myocardial velocity/strain,ejection fraction, cardiac dimensions, and so on. Ultrasound equipmentof this type is available, for example, from GE, ACUSON and Philips.

Importantly, there is also provided a program parameter calculator 18that operates in an automatic or semi-automatic mode to determine theprogramming parameters for the device 12. The calculator 18 is shown inFIG. 1 as a separate element, but it can be incorporated into theprogrammer 14, the ultrasound equipment 16 or even the device 12.

The general operation of the apparatus 10 is now explained inconjunction with the flow chart of FIG. 2. In step 200 one set of AV(atrial-ventricular interval) and VrVI, interval (programmed delay timebetween stimulation between electrodes in the right and left ventricles)and, optionally, other delays which may relate to intraventricular timedelays, VaVb, (e.g. the delay time between stimuli delivered to aposteriorly positioned coronary sinus LV lead, Va, and laterallypositioned coronary sinus LV lead, Vb) associated with the operation ofthe CRT 12 are selected. This can occur either automatically by theprogram calculator 18, or manually. Alternatively, these delays may bepreprogrammed parameters. As described, the AV delays are between theright or left atrial and the right or left ventricle pulses, the VrVIdelays are between the left and the right ventricular pulses and VaVbare between other electrodes (e.g. multi-site coronary sinus leftventricular electrodes). For example, five AV delays may be selected at90±20 msec in 10 msec intervals (e.g., 78, 80, 90, 100, 110) and fiveVrVI delays may be selected at 0±20 msec in 10 msec intervals. Ofcourse, any number M AV delays may be used and N VIVr delays may beused. The one set of delays from M×N delays times. These delays may bearranged into a two dimensional array or matrix for computationalpurposes (step 202). If three (or more) delay times (e.g. multipleinterval timing, AV, VrVI, VaVb) are programmed then a multi-dimensionalmatrix can be used for computational purposes and M×N×P delay times willbe analyzed. This will be referred to as the Matrix Optimization Method(MOM). Importantly, the AV can be predetermined using commonly employedequations (e.g. Ritter method) and not act as a variable for thismatrix. With the predetermined AV delay programmed, only variables VrVIand VaVb need be evaluated using a two rather than a three dimensionalmatrix. This will reduce the number of delay times evaluated by thismethodology. If two atrial leads are employed, RA and LA, the AV canreflect the time interval between the last stimulated atrial chamber(e.g. LA) and first stimulated ventricular chamber (e.g. RV) and bepreprogrammed. The matrix optimization method described above can thenapply to interval timing between RA and LA and VrVI. As is readilyapparent a number of permutations are possible which depend on thelead/electrode configurations implanted within a particular patient.

Next, in step 204 the CRT device is operated by the programmer 12 tostimulate the heart H sequentially using the set of delays defined instep 200. For example, the stimulation may be applied first using pulseswith an AV delay of 70 msec and a VrVI delay of −20 msec.

In step 206, a predetermined cardiac performance parameter CPP ischosen. This parameter is indicative of the performance of the heart Hresponsive to these delays. This parameter can be derived from theultrasonic monitor or ideally from within the CRT device itself. Theinventor has described a number of parameters that are obtained fromwithin the CRT device which are used for monitoring purposes and used todirect programming of interval timing in a closed loop control system.These performance parameters are collected automatically and provided tothe program parameter calculator.

In step 208, the program parameter calculator identifies a cardiacperformance parameter, CPPo, that is indicative of optimal cardiacperformance (or, at least, the parameter that comes closest toindicating optimal performance).

In step 210, the pair of delays AVx, VIVrx corresponding to the optimalcardiac performance parameter is provided to the programmer 12.

In step 212 the programmer 12 programs these delays into the CRT.

The present inventor has discovered that impedance waveforms andimpedance data derived there from are useful in directing theprogramming of the CRT. These waveforms can be used to describe a numberof cardiac properties, including properties of dysynchrony and cardiacperformance. The System automatically chooses the waveforms which havethe most optimal signal to noise ratio (highs fidelity) and yield themost clinically relevant information. Utilization of such impedance dataoccurs autonomously though initial activation and periodic evaluationsin conjunction with an ultrasound interface on an as needed basis may beperformed at regular intervals.

Impedance Data Acquisition

Derivation of impedance waveforms using implanted lead systems is wellknown in the art and has been described in the literature. Dataacquisition can be accomplished, for example, by delivering pulses of200 uA, 20 us pulse width at a frequency of 128 Hz applied to twoelectrodes positioned along one vector (electrode pairs) and measuringthe resulting voltage between electrodes located along the same vector.These pulses will not depolarize myocardium, cause only limited batterydrain, and have a frequency with an acceptable signal to noise ratio.The resultant time dependant impedance, Z (t) peaks when there ismaximal systolic ventricular wall thickness and minimal intracardiacblood volume.

The time dependent impedance signals or waveforms derived in thisfashion relate to intrinsic myocardial properties. If signals areacquired between specific electrode pairs, the regional myocardialproperties can be derived. The integrity of these waveforms may besubject to significant noise (poor signal to noise ratio) and inferiorsignal quality may result. This is especially true if data samplingoccurs in a vector where there is impairment in myocardial contractileproperties. Derivation of specific characteristics of these waveformsmay suffice, even though overall signal quality is poor. Measurement ofpeak impedance and first and second order derivatives of impedancewaveforms will relate to myocardial contractility. Assessment of thetime required for a waveform to reach peak impedance will relate tomyocardial synchrony if comparisons can be made to waveforms derived inalternate regions (e.g. right and left ventricular vectors).

Morphologic characterization of waveforms derived along multiple vectorsis related to native myocardial contractile and relaxation properties(herein referred to as Global Cardiac Performance) and requires bettersignal fidelity than measurements of time to peak impedance or peakimpedance. A comparison to normal waveform templates or changes inwaveform morphology in a given patient reflects inter- andintra-individual variations in myocardial contractile (systolic) andrelaxation (diastolic) properties.

Periodic Interval Monitoring—Analysis Activation

Periodic Interval Monitoring (PIM) at programmed interval (e.g. everyhour) occurs within the CRT. PIM serves to activate analysis ofimpedance and electrogram data if optimal conditions for such analysisexist. Optimal conditions include the patient being at rest (unlessimpedance signals during exercise have been previously determined to beadequate), and during periods of relative hypopnea/apnea. Use of ablended sensor such as an accelerometer and minute ventilation sensorcan be used to define end-expiration or if possible a period ofhypopnea/apnea where band pass filters can most easily eliminateimpedance signal data related to changes in thoracic volume and cardiactranslation within the thorax.

Impedance data acquisition can occur during intrinsic rhythm or duringactive pacing. Recently developed pacemakers utilize impedance dataduring pacing as to define the inotropic state of the heart. Thesepacing systems (Biotronik—closed loop system) adjust rate responsivenessbased on a derived inotropic index and are well known in the art.Defining intrinsic electromechanical properties (dysynchrony) initiallywill serve to direct the system to appropriately pace myocardium andcause resynchronization. This will need to be analyzed thereafter atperiodic intervals during pacing as to confirm that adequateresynchronization is occurring. This can occur during pacing usingelectrodes that describe global cardiac properties or electrodes whichhave vectors that are similar to the electrodes used for stimulation.Techniques may be used to implement the same electrodes that are usedfor stimulation for data acquisition of impedance waveforms as well.Alternatively, and additionally, pacing may be terminated forreassessment of pathologic electromechanical properties with repeatadjustment of interval timing at periodic intervals.

Cardiac Translation

Cardiac translation occurs intermittently as a result of respirationsand with cyclical periodicity during the cardiac cycle. This can causedegradation of impedance signals. Signal acquisition interruption (orintegration time step Halving; see below) and interpolation will reducethe affect of cyclical disturbances and improve the final signal tonoise ratio. Though raw data may be lost during these intervals,specific assumptions about waveform morphology can be made usingprinciples of continuity and estimations based on the probabilitydensity function of such scalar random sequences. Insight into timing ofcardiac translation can be made using echo interface at time of initialdata entry and at periodic interval thereafter.

Parasternal short axis views with samples obtained in regions ofinterest where myocardial deformation is minimal (orthogonal to angle ofinsonification) will define translational time frames (FIG. 3). Signalinterpolation can occur during these time frames, which can thus bedefined on an individual basis using echo interface at time of initialactivation/data entry. As to effectively define translation and notrotation or circumferential myocardial deformation the echo equipmentshould implement Doppler techniques of Tissue Velocity Imaging (GeneralElectric) and eliminate regional strain effects by subtracting thespatial gradient of velocity within the region samples (abstractsubmitted AHA 2004). Currently available equipment can not do thisautonomously but has the capability if appropriate modifications toexisting software were to be made. Importantly, the effects of cardiactranslation will be reduced if one uses electrodes with vectors thattraverse myocardium and not extra-thoracic structures.

Effect of Extra-cardiac Structures

Any electrode pairs or combination of electrode pairs may be used togather impedance waveforms/data. Improvements in signal to noise ratiocan be made by not using the device can as an electrode as this vectortraverses significant lung parenchyma and the great vessels. Impedancechanges related to the great vessels are indirectly proportional tointracardiac Z (t) dt as dZ/dt will be inverse. This is a result ofsystolic forward flow increasing aortic blood volume, which has arelatively low impedance value, compared to thickening myocardium.Normalizing Z (t) dt to impedance data obtained between the SVC coil andCRT can will help eliminate irrelevant signals related to the greatvessels and respiratory variations if the can is used as an electrode.Alternatively, subtraction of Z (t) dt svc-can from intracardiac Z (t)dt will optimize the signal to noise ratio (FIG. 4).

Data Sampling and Integration Techniques

Techniques for integration of non-linear impedance waveforms generallyrely on optimal waveform continuity and signal integrity. The robustnessof the microprocessors and amount of batter longevity are considerationsthat must be accounted for as to minimize cost functions of such acontrol system. The Runge-Kutta integration technique is an example ofhow this can be performed. The larger the number of sampled incrementsobtained the better the signal quality will be. The disadvantage ofusing a greater numbers of increments is depletion of battery voltage,time for microprocessing and memory usage. Thus, data sampling shouldoccur at periodic intervals and need not be continuous. In fact, theintegration time steps need not be held constant and one can reducecomputation during periods of “inactivity” (i.e. diastolic time frames)while retaining closely spaced computations during fast transients (i.e.systole or time of valvular events). As way of example, the magnitude ofintegration time steps can be doubled during systole and just afteraortic valve closure and halved during the majority of diastole. Thisdoubling/halving process is used for data sampling. As opposed to usingone-step processes which involve only the last computed state pulse asingle increment, multi-step processes or predicator-correctoralgorithms which utilize prior state computations will improve curvefitting by extrapolation if the costs to the system are not excessive.

Use of higher frequency current stimuli will cause current density to bemore proximate to the electrodes being implemented and reduce far fieldnoise. Variations in frequency, pulse width and current amplitude can beused as well in an effort to improve signal quality.

All data acquired can be used for monitoring purposes and assessment ofoptimal temporal relationships for pacing stimuli delivered by differingelectrode pairs. In this fashion, intrinsic dysynchronous contractileproperties can be mitigated and cardiac performance optimized.

Summation and Ensemble Averaging

Techniques of summation averaging and/or ensemble averaging over severalcardiac cycles during periodic interval monitoring help optimizeimpedance data collection. Ensemble averaging will eliminate extraneousnoise as the effect of random processes will be minimized for impedancewaveforms derived between regional electrodes. This can be done byevaluating a number of cardiac cycles, C. Data acquisition will occurduring periods of relative apnea and at rest. Blended sensor input fromaccelerometer and minute ventilation sensors will indicate which C areused for data capture. Analyses of Z (t) dt during periods of increasedheart rate (e.g. exercise) can occur if signal to noise ratios areadequate. For the purposes of discussion herein we will discuss dataacquired at rest though similar algorithms can be implemented duringperiods of exercise.

Summation averaging and techniques of integration of impedance waveformdata gathered independently from regional electrodes can be used.Similarly, simultaneous multipolar data acquisition of impedancewaveforms from multi-site electrodes can be used. Signals obtained ineither fashion are then further processed with ensemble averagingtechniques over C cardiac cycles.

Signal Fidelity Hierarchy

Impedance data can be derived in a number of different ways. Impedancewaveforms which reflect the most clinically relevant information shouldalways be used if possible. The inventor has described a number ofdifferent impedance parameters which reflect such cardiac properties.Such impedance waveforms will have the greatest requirements for signalprocessing and data analysis. If the fidelity of such acquired impedancewaveforms is inadequate then the system will switch parameters andimplement impedance data that requires less signal fidelity (FIG. 5).Such parameter switching occurs autonomously within the device or can beprogrammed as a default at the time of initial data entry or any othertime frame. Parameter switching may cause the system to use lowerfidelity data which only relates to dysynchrony rather than higherfidelity data reflective of both dysynchrony and cardiac performance.

Data descriptive of the morphologic characteristics of the impedancewaveform itself require the highest fidelity signals. Descriptions ofthe impedance waveform curve (line integral) with equations orcomputation of the integral under the impedance waveform curve duringspecific time frames of the cardiac cycle will provide the most clinicalinformation. This data describes systolic and diastolic properties aswell as data related to electromechanical dysynchrony (see GlobalCardiac Performance).

If such data can not be used as the signal to noise ratio is poor, thesystem will parameter switch and use alternate data such as the measuredpeak impedance (Z(p)), first or second order derivatives of theimpedance waveforms (e.g. dZ/dt) or the relative time of peak impedancein different vectors (e.g. right and left ventricular leads). In orderto yield the most clinically relevant information the system will needto define valvular events during the cardiac cycle.

Event Timing

Event timing relates to opening and closing of the heart valves. Themost relevant event is closure of the aortic valve. Myocardialthickening that occurs after the aortic valve is closed is workinefficient and will lead to detrimental remodeling secondary toregional strain mismatch of normal contractile tissue and neighboringdysynchronous myocardial segments. Event timing can also relate tomitral valve opening and closing and aortic valve opening. If all eventscan be delineated we can define isovolumic relaxation, systolic ejectionperiod and isovolumic contraction. This will allow us to temporallyrelate any signals monitored within the device to systolic and diastolictime frames throughout the cardiac cycle (temporal systole and diastole)to intracardiac electrogram signals. For descriptive purposes and by wayof example, this invention will focus on aortic valve closure as this isthe most relevant valvular event, which can be more readily defined withimpedance waveforms. Impedance signals derived from intracardiacelectrodes which best elucidate aortic valve closure will be utilized.By defining timing of such events, the appropriate correction factorsmay be applied to multi-site pacing stimuli. Implementation of suchcorrection factors will allow intrinsically depolarized andextrinsically paced myocardium to contract synchronously during thesystolic ejection period while the aortic valve is open(multidimensional fusion).

Event timing related to times of myocardial contractility andrelaxation, mechanical systole and diastole. Mechanical systole anddiastole does not occur in all myocardium simultaneously. Delays inelectrical activation (conduction abnormalities) and myocardialprocesses such as infarction (mechanical abnormalities) causedysynchronous mechanical events. Such dysynchrony can be minimized, inpart, by pre-excited stimulation of dysynchronous myocardial tissue atthe appropriate time. This pre-excited interval (electromechanicalcorrection factor, EMCF) can be derived through analyses of intrinsicelectrogram and impedance signals.

Initial Data Entry

Once an implanted device and lead system has matured or fibrosed into astable position, initial data entry should occur. This occursapproximately 3 months after implant of the CRT. At this point in time,template storage and quality assurance of intracardiac impedance datacan occur. The CRT is programmed in an appropriate fashion afterconfirmation which acquired signals are adequate for activation of thetrue closed loop system using algorithms such as Discriminant Analysis(described below).

Use of an interface with echocardiographic equipment to identifyvalvular events and dysynchronous contractility patters will be helpfulfor initial data entry. If signal processing is optimal, such aninterface may not be necessary. Determinations of signal quality can bemade using stored templates from data banks of patients with normalhearts, cardiomyopathy (CM) and eucontractile patients (reversible CM).At a later time this can be done with comparisons of previously storedtemplate data from the implanted patient. Confirmation of optimal signalquality will be described below. The methodology employed in applicationSer. No. 10/779,162, details how to use of an interface with echo andextra-thoracic impedance measuring devices functions. Through thisinterface it can be confirmed that the intracardiac impedance signalscorrelate with valvular events and myocardial systole and diastole attime of data entry as well as at periodic intervals thereafter.

Defining Valvular Events—Nature of the Notch

Valvular events such as aortic valve closure can be defined by notchingon the downward slope of the impedance signal (FIG. 6 a). Such notchingis apparent on signals derived from extra-thoracic impedance measuringdevices as well. The nature of the notch can be descriptive of specificpathologic processes such as aortic stenosis/regurgitation and decreasedcardiac output. These pathophysiologic states will cause changes in thetime from upslope notching (aortic valve opening) and/or downslopenotching to peak impedance (FIG. 6 and see below) and the morphology ornature of the notch itself (FIG. 6 b). In one embodiment, analysis ofthis data can be used as part of the vital monitoring system detailinginformation about the aortic valve and not just timing of aortic valveevents. Electrodes that traverse the aortic valve (right atrialappendage and right ventricular outflow tract) will be ideal forobtaining such impedance signals (FIG. 7). Global impedance date derivedfrom multiple intracardiac electrodes can improve signal definitiondefining aortic valve events as well. Multiple integration techniques(via multi-polar electrodes) and use of summation averaging techniquesfor optimization purposes improve signal processing for such impedancedate. The exact time in the impedance waveform (morphologic feature ofthe notch) that correlates with aortic valve events can be defined usingthe echo interface if impedance data alone does not accurately definethis event (FIG. 6 b) and such characteristics can be specified at timeof initial data entry.

Characterization of aortic valve can be done with equations designed toassess timing of aortic valve opening and closure. Delays in the timebetween onset of positive dZ/dt (or EGM marker) to aortic valve openingwill be seen in patients with aortic stenosis.Aortic Valve Function=f(AoV)=[t AoVo−t Z(0)/dZ/dt] ^(−t)  Equation 1

Where t AoVo=time of aortic valve opening; t Z(0)=onset time of positiveimpedance slope. The units are in ohm/sec².

The function includes dZ/dt to account for cardiac output though anymeasurement that describes cardiac performance can be substituted fordZ/dt (e.g. ∫ Z (t) dt). Low output states will cause a delay in time toaortic valve opening which will be a confounding variable and lad us tooverestimate aortic valve stenosis severity. Comparisons over time in agiven patient of Aortic Valve Function will lend insight intoprogression of aortic stenosis. Analyses of this function in largegroups of patients with comparisons to other diagnostic evaluations ofaortic stenosis will allow use of f (AoV) for estimation of valve area.This will require derivation of a correction factor based on such data.Similar equations can be made for assessment of aortic valveregurgitation using delays in time to aortic valve closure from eitheronset of aortic valve opening (systolic ejection phase) or from time ofpeak impedance, Z(p). Such analyses will require the most optimal signalfidelity.

Once valvular events can be identified using the impedance signal, thisevent can be extrapolated to any of the intracardiac electrogramssignals for purposes of temporal correlation with other events such asmyocardial thickening (FIGS. 6 and 8). Confirmation that a specificsignal or summated signals appropriately identify valvular events can beperiodically confirmed with an interface with echo. If signal fidelityIs adequate this may not be necessary. Techniques such as doublingintegration time steps (increased sampling frequency) during intervalswhere valvular events are historically expected to occur will helpeliminate requirements for connectivity with other equipment.

Defining Myocardial Events

Mechanical myocardial systole and diastole can be identified byevaluation of impedance signals over time, Z (t) dt, as well. Z (t) dtacross myocardial segments are characterized by peaks and valleys. Peaksrepresent peak myocardial thickening and minimal blood volume. Blood hasa relatively low impedance value and maximally thickened myocardium willhave a peak impedance values. As Z (t) dt can be derived in specificmyocardial segments between local electrodes, information about regionalmyocardial thickening is contained in this function. This informationincludes time of peak myocardial thickening and relative degrees ofmyocardial thickening. Such data can be used to identify changes intiming and degree of local contractility. As timing of contractilityonly requires identification of peak impedance for a specific segment orvector, optimal signal quality is not necessary. If signal processingoptimized a signal such that other data may be derived from theimpedance signal such information can be used for the monitoring systemand shed light on regional changes in myocardium (e.g. infarction).Confirmation that a specific signal or signals appropriately identifytiming of regional myocardial thickening can be made through aninterface with echo or within the device itself with DiscriminantAnalysis algorithms. Echo identification of time of peak myocardialvelocity or time to peak myocardial deformation (strain measurement)will parallel time to peak regional myocardial impedance (FIG. 8). Timeto onset of myocardial deformation, time of minimal regionalintracavitary volume or other echo parameters descriptive of myocardialevents can be used as well. These ultrasonic modalities are currentlyavailable using echocardiographic equipment manufactured by companiessuch as General Electric, Philips and Acuson. By this mechanism the CRTcan be more accurately programmed to have time to peak impedance used asa parameter for the closed loop control system. Importantly, repeatedassessment of timing of valvular events with intrinsic impedance dataand via the interface may be necessary after changes in interval timinghave been programmed, as timing of aortic valvular events may change(e.g. shorter systolic ejection period). Such an assessment can occurwithin the device if adequate impedance signal quality for definingvalvular events is present.

Rate Responsiveness and Detection of Myocardial Ischemia

Changes in myocardial contractility patterns and conductivity vary withincreased heart rate. Incremental delays in electromechanical events mayoccur in a pathologic fashion and as such, true optimization willaccount for this. Impedance signals during exercise often haveinadequate signal to nose ratios. Increases in blood volume within thepulmonary vasculature that occur during exercise will affect theimpedance signal and such offset impedance data is subtracted from thepeaks and valleys in the impedance signal which reflects changes inmyocardial thickness and intracavitary blood volume. Further degradationin impedance signals can be expected during exercise secondary tochanges in respiration and increases in cardiac translation within thechest cavity. Formulation and programming of rate response curves in afashion similar to AV delay optimization with increases in heart ratecan be accomplished using an echo interface with pharmacological stresstesting with an agent such as Dobutamine. Dobutamine will increase boththe heart rate and the inotropic status of the heart without significantchanges in patient movement and respirations. Evaluation of dysynchronywith Dobutamine provocation and optimization of interval timing usingthe echo interface will allow for programming dynamic changes ininterval timing resulting in more physiologic, dynamic control.

One will detect myocardial segments that are ischemic and find moresignificant delays in time to peak myocardial velocity and/or decreasesin regional deformation in patients with compromised coronaryvasculature. Similar data could be detected by analysis of regionaldelays in time to peak impedance and regional decreases in peakimpedance values at higher heart rates. This would be contingent onadequate signal quality and in on embodiment could be used for the vitalmonitoring system. An exercise (non-pharmacological) stress echo can beperformed while the echo interface is active and confirmation ofadequate impedance signal quality with exercise can occur. In thisfashion rate responsive changes in interval timing will not need to beempirically programmed but can be part of the closed loop control systemand based on intracardiac impedance data alone. Use of a bipolar ormultipolar LV lead would optimize signal quality for this type ofdynamic analysis and reduce the affect of extraneous date (cardiactranslation and variations in impedance from respiration). This isbecause more regional information can be derived between local electrodepairs positioned in myocardial tissue that is dysynchronous andextraneous data will not be accounted for.

In one embodiment, delays in time to peak impedance and changes in theimpedance waveform (e.g. time to onset of positive dZ/dt, time to peakZ, time to peak dZ/dt) and/or reductions in the quantity of the integralof Z or changes in the morphology of Z (t) dt, can serve to trigger asystem alert and notify the physician that impairments in coronaryreserve (ischemia or myocardial injury) and present (FIG. 9). In apreferred embodiment, reductions in rate responsiveness (decreases inslope of rate response and peak sensor rate) will occur as to limitmyocardial ischemia when ischemic changes in impedance waveforms aredetected.

Offset Impedance Removal

Impedance data that is not directly related to systolic and diastolicproperties during the cardiac cycle is removed and used for additionalanalyses. Removal of the baseline offset impedance signal that relatesto such “static” cardio-thoracic resistivity is necessary. This datarelated in large part to structures within the thorax as well as dynamicchanges in thoracic fluid volume. Though these changes are less dynamiccompared to impedance variations related to the cardiac cycle, this datacan still be used for monitoring purposes (thoracic fluid volume) and isincorporated into the control system as a means of checking that thecurrent algorithm for optimizing interval timing is not causing clinicaldeterioration (see below—Automatic Optimization Algorithm). Subtractionof offset impedance may occur before derivation of impedance parametersor after analysis of signal vector adequacy or other time from duringsignal processing if costs to the system are lessened.

The newly derived baseline impedance value and impedance waveform,Z(t)dt (line integral), will define the limits of integration in the Yaxis, while specific times during the cardiac cycle (e.g. aortic valveopening and closing) will define the integral limits along the abscissa.

Global Cardiac Performance

Global Cardiac Performance (GCP) is determined from internal electrodepairs/combinations (multipolar) that traverse the heart and aretypically positioned at locations that allow for an evaluation ofchanges in impedance over time in multiple vectors. These electrodes areused to generate multipolar impedance waveforms and may be derived bysimultaneously using multipolar electrodes for current delivery andmeasurement of voltage or techniques of summation averaging ofregionally sampled impedance date (using a variety of vectors) overmultiple cardiac cycles under similar conditions (e.g. heart rate, endexpiration). These multipolar waveforms are less subject to signaldisturbances associated with segmental myocardial impairments and delaysin regional contraction, which are manifested in waveforms derived froma single vector. Analysis of the Global Cardiac Performance data canalso include parameters of peak impedance, first and second orderderivatives and time to peak impedance. The latter parameter requiresthe least amount of signal fidelity and is most useful for comparisonsof time of peak contractility in dysynchronous myocardial segments(FIGS. 9 and 12).

Such morphologic characteristics will ideally provide information onsystolic and diastolic properties of the patient's cardiac system.Integration techniques may be used during specific intervals of thecardiac cycle (e.g. systole), preferably defined by valvular events(e.g. aortic valve opening and closing).

In situations where Z (t) dt is of greater fidelity, more specificinformation that related to systolic and diastolic myocardial propertiesmay be derived form the impedance waveform rather than, for example, thetime of peak impedance or value of peak impedance (FIG. 5). Suchwaveforms can also be derived from regional impedance waveforms betweenone set of electrodes but if possible the data should be reflective ofchanges in impedance, Z(t)dt, in a global fashion (Global CardiacPerformance) between multiple electrodes (multipolar). Multipolar dataacquisition can, but need not, occur simultaneously. For example, rightheart Z (t) dt (RA ring and RV tip for current delivery electrodes withRA tip and RV ring as voltage measuring electrodes for derivation ofimpedance) can be acquired over C cardiac cycles with ensemble averagingtechniques. This can then be repeated between the LV and RV apicalelectrodes and SVC and LV electrodes in a similar fashion. This data canbe used for defining regional properties (RA to RV tip representing RVand LV inferior-basal wall) or global properties by summation averagingor integration of regional impedance waveforms as to derive globalimpedance waveforms (FIGS. 10 and 11). The more global therepresentation of impedance data, the more information is obtained thatrelates to both overall cardiac performance and dysynchrony.

Systolic Cardiac Performance

Pure systolic function can be described using impedance data gatheredduring myocardial thickening. This can be defined as systolic cardiacperformance, SCP. Integration of impedance from the onset of systole (orideally time of aortic valve opening) to time of peak contractility (orideally aortic valve closure) in one or more vectors would be a specificmeans of accomplishing this (FIG. 12):SCP(t)=∫Z(t)dt where t is either measured from onset of systoliccontraction, t=0, to peak contraction, t=p or preferably during thesystolic ejection phase if aortic valve events are defined.  Equation 3Lusitropic Cardiac Performance

Integration of impedance during diastole will yield data relevant tomyocardial relaxation. This would represent the diastolic or lusitropiccardiac performance, LCP (FIG. 12).LCP(t)=∫Z(t)dt  Equation 4

The time frames for integration will be between aortic valve closure andonset of myocardial thickening as defined by onset of dZ/dt+.Alternatively, (if valvular events are not defined), it can acquiredbetween time of Z (peak) and Z baseline, though this would also compriseimpedance values related to myocardial thickening and be less pure.Optimal lusitropy or diastolic relaxation should occur in short orderwithout post-systolic thickening. Post-systolic thickening is anultrasonic marker of diastolic abnormalities and in its presence, LCPwill be a greater value as myocardial segments which are thickeningafter aortic valve closure will increase impedance values when dZ/dt−should be a steeper negative slope. Measurements of dZ/dt itself after Z(peak) [dZ/dt⁻] can also be used for assessment of lusitropic propertiesand incorporated into such analysis much in the same way dZ/dt+ relatesto systolic properties.

As a larger area under the initial portion (or ideally during thesystolic ejection phase) of the impedance curve will denote bettersystolic cardiac performance, a smaller area under the latter portion ofthe impedance curve will indicate more optimal lusitropic propertieswithout regional post-systolic myocardial thickening (i.e. post-systolicpositive impedance, PSPI). In circumstances where there are regionaldelays in myocardial thickening the value of LCP will increase secondaryto post-systolic contractility in dysynchronous segments (FIG. 10).Ideal representation of this data could be derived by assessing asystolic-lusitropic index, SLI: Equation  5:${SLI} = \frac{\int{{Z(t)}{\mathbb{d}t}\quad{systole}}}{\int{{Z(t)}{\mathbb{d}t}\quad{systole}}}$or Equation  6: SLI = SCP/LCP

As contractility improved the numerator will increase and as lusitropicproperties improve the denominator will decrease. As overall systolicand diastolic function is optimized the SLI will increase. Use of otherdata such as first and second order derivative data or slopes ofimpedance curves during systole and diastole would provide complementaryinformation which can be independently evaluated or even incorporatedinto equations relating to cardiac performance as well.

Defining the time of aortic valve opening and closure on the impedancecurve (potentially visible as notching) will be better defined withhigher frequency current pulses as to better delineate systolic anddiastolic time frames and more importantly, allow for the determinationof post-systolic myocardial thickening, PSMT. One can reduce andpotentially eliminate PSMT by delivering pre-excited stimuli based oncorrection factors obtained in such a fashion. If pre-excitation occursto the electrode pair which is delayed by t>t PSPI (time ofpost-systolic impedance) relative to the time where a specific regionhas an appropriate time of initial depolarization/myocardial thickening,conditions of synchrony are likely to be met (FIG. 12 top).

The vector or vectors from which this data is obtained could representregional or global properties. If the RV tip to RV coil is used, thisdata will be more representative of RV function. If the LV tip to can isused this would be more representative of LV function. Use of more thanone vector (multi-polar electrodes) would provide more multi-dimensionaldata and represent global cardiac performance, GCP. This can berepresented by using multiple integral equations (e.g. FIG. 11—tripleintegration).

The above date can be acquired by delivering current pulses between theRV tip and can and measuring voltage between the RV ring and RV coil inorder to obtain RV impedance curve data. Similarly, one can delivercurrent between the RV tip and can and derive impedance curve data usingvoltage measured between the RV rind and LV tip. Delivering currentbetween the RV tip and SVC/can electrodes while measuring voltagebetween the RV ring and RV coil as well as RV ring and LV tip wouldprovide more global data either with or without use of multipleintegrals. Multiple methods and vectors can be used for deliveringcurrent, measuring voltage, and deriving impedance curve data. Thegeneral principle is that this technology can be used for both regionaland global assessments of cardiac systolic and diastolic properties asdescribed above. Such data can be used for monitoring purposes (VitalMonitoring System) and for assessing optimal timing intervals formulti-site resynchronization devices. Multi-polar impedance data is bestsuited for evaluation of Global Cardiac Performance and should beincorporated into algorithms that comprise the closed loop controlsystem whenever possible.

In one embodiment, significant deterioration in parameters of GlobalCardiac Performance can modify device therapy algorithms (e.g.defibrillate rather than anti-tachycardia pacing) or trigger a searchfor undetected ventricular arrhythmia (slow ventricular tachycardia).Changes in the morphologic characteristics of multi-polar impedancewaveforms can serve the same purpose. As pressure volume loops obtainedfrom hearts with and without dysynchrony in normal sinus rhythm andventricular tachycardia are representative of such properties (Lima J A.Circulation 1983; 68, No. 5, 928-938), impedance signals will alsodepict similar pathophysiology (FIG. 13).

In another embodiment, data related to respiratory status (e.g.increases in minute ventilation, decreases in transpulmonic impedance)and/or findings consistent with impairments in cardiac performance (e.g.decreases in SLI, changes in waveform morphology or decreases dZ/dtetc.) can trigger a Vital Monitoring System (VMS) to search forundetected arrhythmias. If specific parameters exceed or fall belowvalues, points can be accrued in a bin counter. If the data pointsentered into the bin counter meet certain criteria, tachyarrhythmiatherapy algorithms can be modified. Examples of such modifications intherapy algorithms include lowering the rate cut off for VT detection,eliminating VT zone therapy and only implement cardioversion therapies(FIG. 14). Conversely, VT exists and impairments in cardiac performancedo not occur, more conservative therapies are utilized (e.g.antitachycardia pacing rather than defibrillation, no therapy for slowVT). Bin counter criteria can be individualized such that patients withpoorer cardiac reserve will require less impairment incardio-respiratory status (e.g. lower bin counter point values) beforedevice therapy algorithms are modified. Any significant changes inclinical status can be reviewed at periodic intervals (e.g. officeinterrogation or via telecommunication) and be stored as trend data.Periodic interval monitoring can occur at specified time frames forgathering of bin counter data points. The frequency of such monitoringcan increase if early deleterious changes in a patient's clinical statusare suspected based on the VMS bin counter values.

Regional declines in cardiac performance (e.g. RV vector impedance datawith decreases in peak impedance and delays in time to peak impedance)can be indicative of a change in clinical status (progression of rightcoronary artery ischemia). Specific changes can be noted prior todelivery of tachyarrhythmia therapy and direct a physician to performtesting (e.g. coronary angiography). In a preferred embodiment, theVital Monitoring System can store not only electrogram data but alsoimpedance data in a loop for review each time tachyarrhythmia therapy isdelivered and provide the physician with insight into potential causesfor ventricular dysrhythmias (e.g. ischemia).

In order to further optimize the clinical relevance of data derived inthis fashion, implementation of respiratory impedance data is necessary.This can be obtained by analysis of impedance between the SVC coil andcan which reflects peri-hilar congestion. Alternatively, this can beobtained from analysis of baseline offset impedance as described above.Current delivery between the RV coil and LV tip would be somewhatparallel to derived voltage data between the SVC and can and would allowthe system to acquire single impulse impedance measurements as well asimpedance curve determinations in a peri-hilar vector, though anycombination of vectors may be used for either current delivery andvoltage/impedance determinations. Use of lower frequency current pulseswould serve as a low pass filter reducing the contribution of myocardialproperties to such data. One can use any vector to acquire this datathough peri-hilar impedance will be more sensitive. As a more euvolemicstate will correlate with higher impedance values, transpulmonicimpedance data can be incorporated into the numerator (i.e.multiplication) of the above equations to derive a representation ofglobal cardio-respiratory performance, GCRP:GCRP=[∫Z(t)dt transpulmonic]−[SLI]  Equation 7

It would be more suitable however to normalize real time Z transpulmonicto baseline measurements that are made when a patient is clinicallyeuvolemic. Determination of euvolemia can be made with invasivemeasurements of pulmonary capillary wedge pressure or based on clinicalassumptions of fluid status. As such, we define the transpulmonicimpedance index, TPI:${{{Equation}\quad 8}:{TPI}} = \frac{\int{{Z(t)}{\mathbb{d}t}\quad{transpulmonic}\quad\left( {{real}\quad{time}} \right)}}{\int{{Z(t)}{\mathbb{d}t}\quad{transpulmonic}\quad({euvolemia})}}$

Isolated measurements of transpulmonic impedance can be made at endexpiration and end diastole and averaged rather than by integrating theoffset impedance over a specific time frame. Incorporation of this datainto equation 4 yields a more appropriate representation of GCRP:GCRP−(SLI)·(TPI)  Equation 9

where TPI reflects transpulmonic impedance in real time normalized toeuvolemic transpulmonic impedance. Euvolemia can be most easily andaccurately determined by using the greatest value of transpulmonicimpedance (lowest thoracic fluid volume) since the prior time ofperiodic interval monitoring. It is worth mention that lower values oftranspulmonic impedance (increased thoracic fluid content) may result inbetter cardiac performance as a result of more optimal Starling's forcesseen with slight elevations in pulmonary capillary wedge pressure and LVend diastolic pressures. In one embodiment, this optimal transpulmonicimpedance value can be derived at a time when patient has had invasivemonitoring of such clinical variables or by correlating the optimaltranspulmonic impedance value to a time when measurements of GlobalCardiac Performance are ideal (e.g. SLI).

Changes in transpulmonic impedance that occur with variations in heartrate and respiration need to be accounted for. This can be done bytriggering acquisition of impedance data for calculation of theseindices during similar conditions (e.g. same heart rate and minuteventilation).

Graphic representation (trend data) of GCRP, SLI, TPI, SCP and LCP willallow the practitioner to make valuable clinical assessments betweenoffice visits. Such data can be averaged over 24 hour periods (or othertime frame) using periodic interval monitoring. PIM can also be used aspart of the control system where the effects of changes in intervaltiming are analyzed using any of the GCP parameters described above.Such analyses need to account for heart rate. Ideally, measurements madethrough PIM can be done under similar conditions (e.g. end-expiration).This will improve signal to noise ratios and allow for appropriatecomparisons.

Stochastic Optimal Control System

The control system evaluates a family of variables as to achieve theoutcome of improving a patient's congestive heart failure symptoms andlong-term prognosis. Such a control system falls into the category of aStochastic Optimal Control System (FIG. 15). In order to achieve optimalcontrol, the system must recognize disturbances such as impairments inimpedance signal fidelity. Multivariate statistical analysis techniques(described below) will serve this purpose. Controllable inputs to thesystem are changes in interval timing. Uncontrollable inputs arerespiration, cardiac translation and patient movement. Use of blendedsensors to determine time of data acquisition and determination of timeframes of cardiac translation where data sampling is minimized will helpoptimize the control system. In this fashion, the dynamic statesmeasured by the system (e.g. Z (t) de) and derived parameters (e.g. GCP)will be utilized as to direct programming of interval timing as tooptimize process outputs (e.g. cardiac performance, resynchronization)and improve clinical outcome.

Morphologic Determinations of Impedance Signal Adequacy

Impedance waveforms have a variety of morphologic characteristics. Inthe normal heart, specific vectors or electrode combinations havespecific appearances. In the pathologic heart, morphologic changes inthe impedance waveform will be found. For example, lower peak impedancevalues and decreases in positive peak dZ/dt will be seen in infractedmyocardium. Comparisons of individual impedance morphology to templatesderived from normal and abnormal individuals can be made if suchtemplate data is stored in a data bank within the device. Determinationof how specific impedance waveforms relate to myocardial contractileproperties can be made through connectivity with an echo interface.Multivariate statistical analysis can be implemented using analysis ofvariance methods or other techniques. Equations which describe acquiredwaveforms, first and second order derivative data, and integrationtechniques can be stored in the data bank and used for analysis.Characteristics of waveform continuity and symmetry are examples of howdescriptive equations relate to the impedance signal. Discriminantanalysis is one example of how statistical analysis can serve toevaluate impedance waveforms.

Discriminant Analysis of Signal Vectors

Once date acquisition is complete for any electrode combination(s) theimpedance waveform(s) are analyzed for determining which signals areadequate for purposes of monitoring and directing interval timing. Thecosts to the system may be less if specific vectors or vectorcombinations are evaluated for adequacy one at a time. Conversely, theevaluation process can occur for all waveforms acquired and a finaldecision can be rendered as to which waveforms are adequate and arerepresentative of the most clinically useful data for further signalprocessing and implementation in the closed loop control system.

Determination of ideal vectors for data acquisition can be made at thetime of initial data entry and/or with use of echo interface. The idealcontrol system can make the same determinations by analysis of impedancesignals through comparisons to morphologic template data without an echointerface (Morphologic Determination of Impedance Signal Adequacy) or byusing methods of multivariate statistical analysis. In one embodimentand by way of example, Discriminant analysis of impedance waveformsderived from multiple vector combinations lead to selection of optimalelectrode configurations for data acquisition. Such selection criteriamay vary with exercise. These electrode combinations need not varyduring the life of the device/patient but situations may arise wheresuch configurations become inadequate. Such circumstances might includeprogressive fibrosis which impairs the electrode/myocardial interface,or affects secondary to remodeling or infarction.

Inputs to the Discriminant Analysis algorithms can include a multitudeof impedance data (e.g. signal vector impedance waveforms or multipolarimpedance waveforms subjected to ensemble averaging, or variablemultiple vector impedance waveforms subject to summation averagingtechniques). Predictor variables are used to assess the adequacy of suchimpedance date (FIG. 16). These predictor variables may reflectproperties including but not limited to fidelity, morphology, andtiming. Such predictor variables can be weighted so that the mostrelevant inputs are weighted higher.Discriminant Analysis Equation:Discriminant function=L=b1x1+b2x2+b2x3+ . . . bnxn  Equation 10

Discriminant function, L, describes signal fidelity. Values of L over aspecific number will indicate adequate signal fidelity. Predictorvariables x1−xn are weighted according to relative importance for beingable to discriminant high from low fidelity signals. Predictor variablex1 is most important, weighted the highest, and as such b1 is greaterthan b2−bn.

One example of a predictor variable can be the standard deviation of theintegral during systole of sequentially acquired impedance signals in aparticular vector (x1). If the standard deviation of this integral islow, this suggests that the acquired signal has limited variability andis less subject to disturbances which would degrade signal fidelity. Asthis is of greater importance for determination of signal adequacy thanother predictor variables the value of b1 would be greater than b2−bn.Other examples of predictor variables include, but are not limited to,beat to beat similarity in impedance waveform morphology. A waveformwhich is inconsistent from one heartbeat to the next is inadequate.Acquired impedance waveforms can be compared to stored data bank ortemplate waveforms that are known to be high fidelity. Such acomparative analysis is used to determine which signals are adequate foroutput from the Discriminant Analysis algorithms as well. If theimpedance signal derived from one particular vector or from summation ofsignals derived from 2 or more vectors (summation averaging) are inputto the Discriminant Analysis and are determined to be inadequate thecontrol system would not use this data for analysis. Impedancewaveforms, whether derived from a single electrode pair (regional) or acombination of electrode pairs (Global Cardiac Performance) that are ofadequate fidelity, will be output as adequate and used as part of thecontrol system. In this fashion the system will determine which vectorsto use for data analysis (monitoring or to direct timing of CRT). Theparticular electrode combinations which yield optimal signals will varyfrom patient to patient. This technique will provide for anindividualized means of determining which electrode combinations shouldbe used on a regular basis for measurements of impedance waveforms andwill be adjusted if conditions change.

The outputs will be grouped into either adequate or inadequate impedancesignals. Under ideal circumstances multiple vectors (electrodecombinations) can be used for output data. This output data can be partof the Vital Monitoring System and also be used for programming CRTinterval timing. Integration of Individual vectors representing 3dimensional spatial patterns will generate global impedance waveforms,Global Cardiac Performance. Such waveforms will be less prone toextraneous noisy signals especially when techniques of regional ensembleand global summation averaging are utilized. Regional impedance signalswill provide more specific information about segmental myocardialabnormalities if the signal to noise ratios is optimal and can ideallybe utilized in addition to Global Cardiac Performance data in acomplementary fashion.

Temporal Calculator

Once the highest fidelity impedance data which is deemed adequate withDiscriminant Analysis is identified, calculations of event timing can bemade with the Temporal Calculator (FIG. 17). This is used for timing ofsignal acquisition/processing, defining systolic and diastolic timeframes and extrapolating specific events to time points on theintracardiac electrogram signal(s). These references time points andtime frames are then integrated into the closed loop control system forprogramming of interval timing. Properties of dysynchrony derived frommulti-site CRT lead systems which relate to anisotropic myocardialdeformation can be entered into a similar calculator and used for closedloop control as well (FIG. 18). These are discussed in the parentapplication Ser. No. 10/779,162.

In one embodiment, if signals obtained in various vectors/vectorcombinations are deemed inadequate by Discriminant Analysis, changes incurrent stimulation frequency, duration (pulse width) and currentamplitude can occur with repeat analysis of signal fidelity (FIG. 19).Such changes in stimulation values can lead to an increment or decrementin the original value by either a default or programmable percentage ofthe initial settings.

Dynamic Control System/Choosing Highest Fidelity Signals

After determining which electrode combinations yield adequate signalsusing Discriminant analysis the system chooses which impedance waveformsare used for monitoring purposes and directing interval timing of theCRT. This is depicted in FIG. 20 with Steps further detailed in FIG. 20a. In step 1 and 2 blended sensors determine when signals are acquired.In step 3 the impedance offset related to “static” cardiothoracicconditions is removed and stored for monitoring (VMS) and calculation ofthe transpulmonic impedance index. A specific number of cardiac cycles,C, are used to perform ensemble averaging in step 4. In step 5Discriminant analysis or other techniques using multivariate statisticalanalysis is used evaluate the impedance waveforms derived thus far andconfirm that the system can derive parameters of Global CardiacPerformance using integration techniques. Such signals ideally will beable to have integration techniques applied for derivation of datarepresentative of systolic and diastolic time frames (e.g. SCP and LCP).If the signal morphology is adequate then the system uses the waveformfor monitoring purposes (VMS) and to direct CRT timing (VTS), steps 6 aand 6 b. If the signals are inadequate then the system will utilize alower fidelity signal which will be used to direct CRT interval timing(step 7). In the example shown in FIG. 20 the Dynamic control systemwill utilize time to peak impedance derived from different electrodecombinations in a biventricular CRT device (e.g. RV tip to RV coil and abipolar LV lead). Confirmation that the signals are adequate for such alower fidelity analysis is made by a counter which compares number ofpeak impedance events to sensed “R waves” derived from intracardiacelectrograms in step 8 (FIG. 21). The electromechanical correctionfactor index can then be calculated. Once this is calculated the dynamiccontrol system assessed the nature of the notch in step 9. If the timeof aortic valve closure can be determined (e.g. trans-valvularelectrodes) this is extrapolated to the intracardiac electrogram forreferences purposes. In step 10 the system calculates the time of postsystolic positive impedance in RV and LV vectors. If, for example, theLV impedance signal is delayed ms milliseconds, pre-excitation of the LVwill occur until ms≦0. If the time of post systolic positive impedancecan not be determined as the time of aortic valve closure isindeterminate the system changes interval timing until the EMCFIapproaches unity. This processing can require determinations of peakimpedance during intrinsic rhythm and during pacing.

If the signal are inadequate for measuring peak impedance (poorfidelity), the system will choose a specific set of interval timingsfrom a data bank. This set of interval timing can be chosen frompre-determined values derived from the last evaluation using echointerface or based on comparisons of low fidelity signals to templatesignals which are associated with similar impedance signal morphologyand have been used to have successfully directed programming of CRTinterval timing in the past (such comparisons can be for the specificimplanted patient or based on data bank templates derived from otherpatients). After interval timing has been determined using any of thesetechniques it is further analyzed using the Matrix Optimization Method(step 12) if additional permutations of interval timing need to beevaluated (e.g. AV interval or additional intra-ventricular intervals ina multi-site LV lead). Such interval timing can thus be fine-tuned, forexample, by choosing a number of combinations of timing where EMCFIapproached unity and a predetermined number of AV intervals (e.g. basedon echo AV optimization performed in the past) as described in theparent application, patent application Ser. No. 10/779,162 (FIG. 26).After the MOM direct programming of interval timing associated withoptimal conditions the Automatic Optimization Algorithm serves toperiodically evaluate the effectiveness of such chosen interval timingat periodic intervals (step 13 and 14).

Automatic Optimization Algorithm

Automatic Optimization Algorithms (AOA) evaluates the effectiveness orprogrammed CRT interval timing over specific intervals of time andserves as an overseeing control system. The AOA can evaluate GlobalCardiac Performance using intrinsic measurements of impedance (e.g.dZ/dt, peak Z, integrals of Z (t) dt with varying limits, Z offset(thoracic fluid volume)). This is described in detail in patentapplication Ser. No. 10/779,162 and is depicted in FIGS. 22 a, b and c.Which parameters are evaluated depends on signal fidelity as discussedabove. The AOA can parameter switch as needed though the clinically mostuseful parameter should be utilized whenever possible (e.g. GCRP).Discriminant analysis or other techniques will service to direct theswitch of parameters utilized in the control system. Parameters such asEMCFI describe dysynchrony. Time to peak dZ/dt and time to onset of Z(t) dt are alternate parameters of dysynchrony that can be used if thetime of the peak impedance value can not be defined. Ideally parametersrepresentative of Global Cardiac Performance that relate tosynchronization and cardiac performance can be utilized (FIG. 22 a).Parameters that describe timing and synchronization alone (FIG. 22 b)will be suitable but do not represent as much clinically relevantinformation. In circumstances where no parameter can be used because ofinadequate impedance signals, specific sets of interval timing may betried over specific time frames while trends in transpulmonic impedanceare evaluated (FIG. 22 c). In this situation the MOM will not beutilized (Motherless Option) as no cardiac performance parameter can beoptimized.

If a sub-critical circumstance arises then the Automatic OptimizationAlgorithm will cause a parameter switch so that a different parameter isused for overseeing the system which may be more effective forevaluation of the clinical response to CRT interval timing. Suchparameter switching may be necessitated if signal fidelity does notallow use of a specific parameter as well. The AOA can modify intervaltiming to a default setting or if a critical circumstance arises anemergency default pacing modality can be implemented.

Vital Therapeutic System—CRT Interval Timing

The methodology employed to modify interval timing is illustrated inFIG. 23. This has similarities to the AOA whereby the highest fidelityimpedance data yielding the most clinically relevant data is utilized todirect CRT timing. In the circumstance where measurements of GlobalCardiac Performance parameters can be utilized (step 1), signals of thehighest fidelity, descriptive of Z (t) dt morphology, can beimplemented. If valvular events are identifiable (step 2), the VTS willuse integration techniques over systole and diastole as to deriveparameters of Global Cardiac Performance (step 4). The system will thenuse such GCP parameters in the Matrix Optimization Method, step 5, andfor the Automatic Optimization Algorithm (step 6 and FIG. 22 a). Thespecific parameter optimized, CPPO, will ideally reflect both cardiacperformance and dysynchronous properties. If systolic and diastolic timeframes can be determined, the parameter used will be the SLI. This datacan be supplemented with measurements of the TPI and the GCRP can beused in the best of circumstances. The set of interval timing whichmaximizes GCRP is then programmed. If needed, parameter switching canoccur (e.g. inadequate characterization of diastolic time frames) and apure measurement of systolic function such as SCP or ever Z(p), peakimpedance, can be evaluated at any programmed interval timing. Ifvalvular events are not identifiable but the impedance waveformmorphology is adequate, integration techniques over relative systolicand diastolic time frames will occur from time of onset of the positiveslope (upward deflection) of the impedance signal, A (0) dt to peak Z,Z(p) dt, and from time Z (p) dt to the time when Z (t) dt reaches itsbaseline value, respectively (step 3).

If signal morphology is intermediate but valvular events can be defined(step 7), time of post-systolic positive impedance can be determined andused to make a gross change in interval timing (e.g. pre-excite theappropriate electrode as to cause t PSPI to be ≦0). If valvular eventsare not identifiable but time of peak impedance is determined then theEMCFI algorithm is utilized (step 8). The EMCFI algorithm is less ideal,for example, as RV and LV timing may be synchronous but after aorticvalve closure (global electromechanical delays). Use of additionalcontrol systems such as MOM and the AOA will help optimize intervaltiming programmed in this fashion. The EMCFI algorithm however iscapable of more fine tuning than the t PSPI algorithm. After the t PSPIalgorithm has caused pre-excited stimulation as to insure stimulationduring the systolic ejection period, further optimization in timing canoccur using the EMCFI algorithm. The t PSPI algorithm can be ideallyimplemented at time of initial data entry during intrinsic rhythm andfurther modifications in interval timing can occur using the EMCFIalgorithm thereafter.

Eliminating Post-Systolic Positive Impedance Time (t PSPI)

In step 9 time of aortic valvular events are extrapolated to theintracardiac electrogram, IEGM, used as a reference. In step 10 time ofpeak impedance in the specific vectors subject to synchronization (e.g.LV and RV) are extrapolated on the references IEGM. A calculator thendetermines the t PSPI for each vector in step 11. In steps 12-15 changesin interval timing for stimulation of electrodes in these vectors occuruntil peak myocardial impedance is no longer post-systolic but occursduring the systolic ejection phase (step 16 and FIG. 8). A similaralgorithm can be employed in circumstances where there is pre-systolicpositive impedance.

EMCFI Algorithm

The EMCFI algorithm will require less fidelity that either the GCP or tPSPI algorithms. This algorithm will necessitate identification of timeof peak impedance (step 17). If this is not possible (step 18), thesystem can use Disparity Indices derived from IEGMs obtained in variousvector combinations (see Electrogram Disparity Indices). Once time of Z(p) is determined the system calculates the EMCFI (step 19). If theEMCFI approaches unity (step 20) the set(s) of programmed intervaltiming that cause EMCFI TO approach one +/− a given standard deviationare used in MOM (step 20) with the highest fidelity impedance parameterpossible (e.g. Z(p) or dZ/dt). If EMCFI is not close to unity, changesin interval timing occur until EMCFI approaches unity (steps 21-25).After interval timing that corresponds to CPPo using MOM is programmedthe AOA serves to oversee the system as an additional control atperiodic intervals (step 26).

In an alternate embodiment, equations that describe the relationshipbetween relative time of peak impedance and stimulation patterns(varying interval timing) can be utilized to more readily determine theappropriate delay times between current delivery in the specificvectors. Such an equation can be more readily derived by using the echointerface and will likely be exponential in nature. The exponent will bea different number during increases in heart rate that may occur withexercise. Such a change in the equation will require analysis ofelectromechanical relationships during exercise or inotropicstimulation. The device can autonomously derive this equation and ifchanges in the equation becomes necessary (evidence of increaseddysynchrony) the DMS can alert the physician that a patient's clinicalstatus has changed.

In another embodiment, measurements of cardiac performance such as adetermination of inotropy (e.g. dZ/dt or SCP) can be made with impedancesignals and serve to modify which equations are used to direct intervaltiming. These equations would have to be individualized and based oneither data acquired with an echo interface or by historical values oftime to peak impedance at different sets of interval timing undervarying inotropic states.

In circumstances where impedance data is not able to be used at all thesystem can use an alternate means of optimizing timing that relies onassessment of a disparity index based on intracardiac electrograms (seebelow), or based on pre-determined defaults as depicted in step 11, FIG.10. The AOA in this case would utilize measurements of TPI as to overseethe control system.

Disparity Indices of Intracardiac Electrograms

In an alternate embodiment, intracardiac electrograms derived frommulti-site electrodes can be used for deriving a disparity index. Thegreater the disparity of intrinsic electrical activation patterns themore dysynchrony is present (METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PROGRAMMINGINTERVAL TIMING IN CRT DEVICES, application Ser. No. 10/779,162). Thedisparity index can be used in a closed loop system as a parameter fordetermining optimal CRT interval timing. Relative timing of variousfeatures of IEGM signals will describe dysynchronous activation patternsbetter than surface ECG. This is because IEGMs provide a window intoactivation patterns that appear fused on a surface ECG. Analysis of IEGMto derive a disparity index can include but is not limited to evaluationof relative onset of EGM deflection, time of peak and termination of EGM“R” waves, duration of EGM “R” waves.

In a non-CRT device, such a disparity index can trigger an alert toinform the physician that intracardiac electrogram signals aresuggestive of dysynchrony and that an upgrade to a CRT device should beconsidered. Use of the can electrode in a non-CRT device will helpincorporate electrogram data that represents left ventricular activationpatterns. Any number of variables that reflect relative timing ofdepolarization in different vectors can be used to derive disparityindices for such an embodiment.

Matrix Optimization Method (MOM)

The descriptions herein relate mainly to conventional biventricularpacing systems and temporal relationships between dual site ventricularpacing stimuli. Resynchronization therapy may employ multiple electrodesfor stimulation between and/or within the cardiac chambers. Optimalinterval timing includes atrial-ventricular intervals (AVI) and possiblemulti-site pacing with additional electrode pairs (VaVb) in addition toconventional biventricular electrodes (VrVI). AVI can be programmedbased on equations described in the literature, AV optimizationtechniques using echo or intrinsically within the closed loop system.The details of the MOM are described in more detail above and in theparent application Ser. No. 10/779,162.

AV Optimization Using Impedance Data

Impedance data can be utilized for AV optimization purposes as well. Onemethod of achieving this can be by injecting current impulses during thecardiac cycle and determining end-diastole when the impedance value isat a minimum. Limitations in the application of such impedance data forAV optimization are several-fold. Onset of initial ventricularcontraction should occur after maximal filling of the ventricularchambers. This will correspond to a time frame when trans-cardiacimpedance is at a nadir. Dysynchronous hearts, however, have regionalvariations in mechanical end diastole. This has been demonstrated in theultrasound literature. FIG. 24 demonstrates an ultrasound modality,curved M mode imaging. In this example one can visualize that specificmyocardial segments begin contracting (regional end-diastole) afterother segments. These delays can approach 500 milliseconds. If theimpedance waveforms relate to myocardial segments with delayedcontractility, AV optimization can occur after aortic valve closure.Ultrasonic imaging can demonstrate this by analysis of regional changesin volume as well. FIG. 25 depicts time to minimal regional volume usingPhilips three dimensional echocardiographic imaging before and afterresynchronization.

In order to overcome these limitation adequately, one can use multipleimpedance waveforms in a variety of vectors with summation averagingtechniques. Alternatively, multi-polar impedance data acquisition willmore accurately reflect global changes during the cardiac cycle.Electrodes with vectors that traverse the atrial chambers or greatvessels will potentially be 180 degrees out of phase with ventricularevents and should not be utilized for data acquisition. Ideally, AVoptimization should occur after inter- and intra-ventricular dysynchronyhas been minimized. In this fashion, there will be more congruencebetween regionally obtained impedance waveforms.

An additional point is that for any changes in interval timing in onedimension, further modifications in interval timing will be needed inanother dimension. For example, changes in VrVI may cause a change inthe systolic ejection period, which necessitates adjustments in the AVIfrom the time of original programming. For this to occur dynamically,the MOM algorithm can be utilized (FIG. 26 and METHOD AND APPARATUS FORPROGRAMMING INTERVAL TIMING IN CRT DEVICES, patent Ser. No. 10/779,162).By way of example, a three dimensional mathematical array can includeseveral permutations of AVI, predetermined VrVI where EMCFI approachesunity, and several VaVb. The parameter which best describes GlobalCardiac Performance (e.g. GCRP is signal integrity is ideal or peakdZ/dt if less than ideal) will be the one optimized using thismethodology. Use of these modalities for fine-tuning interval timingwill optimally optimize synchrony without the pitfalls of usingregionally derived impedance data as to direct AV timing.

Prevention of Positive Feedback

In the event an impedance signal is misinterpreted in a significantfashion as a result of an unexpected disturbance (e.g. not cardiactranslation) the Vital Control System will not be able to pace withinterval timing that falls outside a pre-determined range of values.This range of values can be programmed using default intervals, based onecho interface or template data. The template data based on a specificindividual's needs during a specified prior time frame will better servethe patient, unless some major change in the patient's underlying statusoccurs (infarction). The Automatic Optimization Algorithm is capable ofdetecting such a dramatic change acutely (with parameters of GlobalCardiac Performance: dZ/de, Z(peak), dZ′/dt, various integrals of Z(t)dt such as LCP, SCP) and on a more chronic basis. The parameters mostapplicable to chronic measurements are those incorporating measurementsof thoracic fluid volume (pulmonary vascular congestion) such as Zoffset, and GCRP (SLI×trans-pulmonic impedance. By these mechanisms adeleterious condition will be avoided.

Numerous modifications can be made to this invention without departingfrom its scope as defined in the appended claims. Implementation ofindividual embodiments described herein does not necessitate use of anyspecific inventions described in this patent application concurrently.

1. A method for evaluating global cardiac performance, comprising:measuring dynamic intracardiac impedance over a time period; identifyinga first systolic event and a second systolic event from the time period;evaluating an integral of the dynamic intracardiac impedance from aboutthe first systolic event to about the second systolic event to determinea systolic performance parameter; identifying a first diastolic eventand a second diastolic event from the time period; evaluating anintegral of the dynamic intracardiac impedance from about the firstdiastolic event to about the second diastolic event to determine adiastolic performance parameter; and determining global cardiacperformance by comparing the systolic performance parameter with thediastolic performance parameter.
 2. The method for evaluating globalcardiac performance as in claim 1, wherein identifying the firstsystolic event comprises identifying an onset of a systolic phase. 3.The method for evaluating for global cardiac performance as in claim 1,wherein identifying the first systolic event comprises identifying anonset of a positive derivative of the dynamic intracardiac impedance. 4.The method for evaluating global cardiac performance as in claim 1,wherein identifying the first systolic event comprises identifying anaortic valve opening.
 5. The method for evaluating global cardiacperformance as in claim 4, wherein the aortic valve opening isidentified by a morphological finding of the dynamic intracardiacimpedance.
 6. The method for evaluating global cardiac performance as inclaim 1, wherein identifying the second systolic event time comprisesidentifying a peak intracardiac impedance from the dynamic intracardiacimpedance.
 7. The method for evaluating global cardiac performance as inclaim 1, wherein identifying the second systolic event comprisesidentifying a notching in a downward slope of the dynamic intracardiacimpedance.
 8. The method for evaluating global cardiac performance as inclaim 1, wherein identifying the second systolic event comprisesidentifying an onset of a negative derivative of the dynamicintracardiac impedance.
 9. The method for evaluating global cardiacperformance as in claim 8, wherein the onset of a negative derivative ofthe dynamic intracardiac impedance is used to identify the secondsystolic event when a notching in a downward slope of the dynamicintracardiac impedance is not detected.
 10. The method for evaluatingfor global cardiac performance as in claim 1, wherein measuringintracardiac impedance comprises measuring intracardiac impedance frommultiple vectors.
 11. The method for evaluating global cardiacperformance as in claim 1, wherein the diastolic performance parameterhas an inverse relationship to global cardiac performance.
 12. Themethod for evaluating for global cardiac performance as in claim 1,further comprising comparing the global cardiac performance to anoperational parameter.
 13. The method for evaluating for global cardiacperformance as in claim 1, further comprising measuring pulmonaryimpedance and determining a global cardio-respiratory parameter usingthe global cardiac parameter and the pulmonary impedance.
 14. Animplantable cardiac system comprising: an implantable cardiac devicecomprising a microprocessor; and an electrical lead system configured todetect intracardiac impedance; and wherein the implantable cardiacdevice is configured to: a) identify a systolic impedance waveform and adiastolic impedance waveform from the intracardiac impedance; b)generate at least one control signal using the systolic impedancewaveform and the diastolic impedance waveform; and c) set one or moreoperational parameters of the implantable cardiac device using saidcontrol signal.
 15. The implantable cardiac system as in claim 14wherein the electrical lead system is adapted to detect multi-vectorintracardiac impedance.
 16. The implantable cardiac system as in claim14, wherein the implantable cardiac device is configured to calculatethe integral of the systolic impedance waveform and of the diastolicimpedance waveform and is adapted to generate the at least one controlsignal.